What is the Difference Between Sigmoid and Cecal Volvulus?

Sigmoid volvulus and cecal volvulus are two types of bowel obstructing defects that involve the twisting of a particular portion of the abdomen. They have some key differences:

• Location: Sigmoid volvulus is a torsion in the sigmoid colon present in the large intestine, while cecal volvulus is a torsion in the cecum present in the large intestine.
• Origin: Sigmoid volvulus arises in the left lower portion of the intestine, while cecal volvulus arises in the right lower portion of the intestine.
• Bowel Dilation: Sigmoid volvulus is associated with large bowel dilation, while cecal volvulus is associated with small bowel dilation.
• Age: Sigmoid volvulus mostly affects older individuals, while cecal volvulus mostly affects younger patients.
• Sex: Sigmoid volvulus is more common in males, while cecal volvulus is more common in females.
• Symptoms: Both conditions can cause vomiting, abdominal swelling, and abdominal pain. Additionally, absolute constipation and severe abdominal pain are the onsets of cecal volvulus, with its signs and symptoms being somewhat similar to peritonitis.

Both conditions require medical intervention. Sigmoid volvulus without peritonitis is initially managed with endoscopic detorsion, followed by semi-elective surgery (sigmoid colectomy). Sigmoid volvulus with peritonitis, and all cases of cecal volvulus, require emergency surgery.

Comparative Table: Sigmoid vs Cecal Volvulus

Here is a table summarizing the differences between sigmoid and cecal volvulus:

Sigmoid volvulus is a twisting of the sigmoid colon, which is part of the large intestine, and is more common in older individuals and males. Cecal volvulus, on the other hand, is a twisting in the cecum area of the large intestine and is more common in younger patients. Both conditions can lead to bowel obstruction and, if untreated, can result in complications such as fecal peritonitis and bowel perforation.